After Mechanical Engineering: Career Options

Introduction

Mechanical engineering is a broad field that encompasses the design, analysis, and manufacturing of machines and systems. As a result, mechanical engineers have a wide range of career options available to them after completing their degrees.

In this post, we will explore some of the most popular career paths for mechanical engineers. We will also discuss the education and experience requirements for each career path, as well as the potential salary and job outlook.

Career Paths for Mechanical Engineers

There are many different career paths that mechanical engineers can pursue, depending on their interests and skills. Some of the most popular career paths include:

Design Engineer: Design engineers use their knowledge of engineering principles to design and develop new machines and systems. They work closely with other engineers, technicians, and manufacturers to bring their designs to life.

Product Engineer: Product engineers oversee the development of new products from concept to production. They work with design engineers, marketing professionals, and manufacturing engineers to ensure that products are designed, manufactured, and marketed effectively.

Manufacturing Engineer: Manufacturing engineers design, plan, and implement manufacturing processes. They work with production engineers, quality control inspectors, and other professionals to ensure that products are manufactured efficiently and safely.

Sales Engineer: Sales engineers sell and market machinery and systems to customers. They use their technical knowledge to help customers select the right products for their needs.

Project Manager: Project managers oversee the planning, execution, and completion of engineering projects. They work with engineers, technicians, and other professionals to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to specification.

Education and Experience Requirements

The education and experience requirements for mechanical engineers vary depending on the career path they choose. However, most mechanical engineers have a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from an accredited university.

In addition to their formal education, mechanical engineers typically need to have several years of experience in the field before they can advance to more senior positions. This experience can be gained through internships, co-ops, or entry-level jobs.

Salary and Job Outlook

The salary and job outlook for mechanical engineers is generally positive. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for mechanical engineers was $90,920 in May 2021. The job outlook for mechanical engineers is also expected to grow faster than average in the coming years.

Conclusion

Mechanical engineering is a rewarding career field that offers a wide range of opportunities. With a solid education and experience, mechanical engineers can have a successful career in a variety of industries.